Jesus takes center stage as Brazil wins Copa America

RIO DE JANEIRO

Brazil's Gabriel Jesus made one goal, scored another and was sent off in the second half as his side beat Peru 3-1 to win the Copa America for the ninth time in a pulsating contest at the Maracana Stadium.

The host took the lead after 15 minutes thanks to some brilliant skill from Jesus on the wing. The Manchester City forward bamboozled two defenders and crossed for the unmarked Everton to fire home from close range.

"In the last game I was quiet and I was very disappointed with myself," said Man of the Match Everton. "I got it in my head that I had to give everything, independent of scoring. I had to sweat blood for my team mates. Our team deserves congratulations for a great game."

Peru, which last won the tournament in 1975, got an equalizer a minute before halftime when Paolo Guerrero scored from the penalty spot after Thiago Silva handled the ball.

The goal was the first Brazil had conceded in six games at the Copa America but it did not shake its confidence and the team retook the lead moments later after a well-worked move from midfield.

Roberto Firmino showed some nice skill on the right touchline before giving the ball to Arthur. The midfielder strode forward and fed Jesus, who coolly slotted the ball past a helpless Pedro Gallese.

Peru pushed forward in the second half and was thrown a lifeline with 20 minutes remaining when Jesus was sent off.

He had been felled by Carlos Zambrano a few minutes earlier and when Jesus dealt out his revenge he was immediately shown a second yellow to follow a first half caution for a bad tackle.

"I want to apologize," said Jesus. "I could have avoided it and I also need to grow up a lot."

But Brazil, playing in front of a 70,000 crowd in Rio de Janeiro, had the final say when substitute Richarlison made it 3-1 with a penalty in the final minute.

It was Brazil's first major title since it won the Copa America in 2007 and the first for coach Tite, who took charge three years ago.

Brazil also did it without Neymar, who was injured on the eve of the tournament.

Peru coach Ricardo Gareca recognized Brazil was the superior side but said his team, which played at its first World Cup in 36 years in 2018, was competitive throughout.

"It was fair that Brazil won," he said. "We had our momentum but the second goal... They took advantage of their opportunities.”

"We came here hoping to win but they were very effective," he added. "But looking beyond the pain of the defeat, I think we are on the right path, that is the feeling that I have."